Things To Do
in Peri-Mirim

Peri-Mirim is a small, rural municipality in Maranhão, Brazil, nestled along tropical waterways and fertile farmlands. The town exudes a welcoming, slow-paced vibe where markets, riverside life, and local crafts form the heart of daily activity. Visitors can sample Maranhão flavors, listen to regional music, and photograph lush scenery without the crowds of bigger cities.

The surrounding countryside invites relaxed outdoor outings and genuine cultural encounters with residents who embody the region’s warmth.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Arrival in Peri-Mirim
morning
:

Arrive at the charming town of Peri-Mirim and settle into your cozy accommodations. Enjoy a refreshing breakfast featuring local specialties to kickstart your adventure. Take a leisurely stroll through the town to soak in its vibrant culture.

afternoon
:

Visit the nearby waterfalls and plunge into the crystal-clear waters to refresh yourself. Take in the stunning natural beauty surrounding the area, and perhaps enjoy a picnic lunch made from local ingredients. Explore the lush landscapes filled with tropical flora and fauna.

evening
:

Feast at a local restaurant, indulging in traditional Brazilian cuisine prepared with fresh ingredients. Connect with fellow travelers and locals to share stories of your day's experiences. Wind down by enjoying the stars in the serene Brazilian sky.

day 2
Exploring Local Markets
morning
:

Start your day by visiting the bustling local market, where you can find fresh produce and handmade crafts. Engage with friendly vendors and learn more about the region’s culinary delights. Sample local treats and perhaps pick up some souvenirs.

afternoon
:

Take a cooking class to learn how to prepare traditional Brazilian dishes using ingredients sourced from the market. This hands-on experience will deepen your appreciation for the local culture and flavors. Enjoy the meal you've created with your classmates in a communal atmosphere.

evening
:

After dinner, head to a lively music venue to experience the vibrant sounds of Brazilian samba and bossa nova. Immerse yourself in the rhythm and perhaps even join in on a dance or two. Reflect on the day's memories with new friends over a caipirinha.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$8-12
💧Bottle of water (1.5L)$0.60-1.50
🍽️Meal for two in a mid-range restaurant$20-40
🚌Local transit (within town)$2-5
🛏️Mid-range hotel per night$30-60

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Authentic Maranhão culture and fewer crowds
  • Rich riverside scenery and relaxed pace
  • Limited English in rural areas
  • Fewer direct international flight options and basic infrastructure in some spots
  • "Olá" - Hello
  • "Bom dia" - Good morning
  • "Por favor" - Please
  • "Obrigado/Obrigada" - Thank you
  • "Com licença" - Excuse me
  • "Onde fica o banheiro?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Quanto custa?" - How much does it cost?
  • "Você fala inglês?" - Do you speak English?
  • "Eu não falo Português muito bem" - I don't speak Portuguese very well
  • "Pode me ajudar?" - Can you help me?

Places to Visit in Peri-Mirim

Visit one of these nice places.

Riverside at Sunset

Golden-hour reflections on calm waters along the Itapecuru-like river make for tranquil, expressive wildlife and portrait photography.

Historic Igreja de Nossa Senhora

A colonial-style church with a white facade and simple stained glass, offering approachable architectural photography and a glimpse into local faith traditions.

Town Market Ramp and Waterfront

Vibrant daily life with colorful stalls, boats, and locals; ideal for candid street photography and texture shots.

Culinary Guide

Food in Peri-Mirim

Peri-Mirim’s cuisine reflects Maranhão’s coastal and riverine influences, with seafood, cassava, and aromatic herbs like palm oil and peppers shaping everyday meals.

Peri-Mirim Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Arroz de Cuxá

A iconic Maranhão dish featuring rice cooked with dried shrimp, okra, and herbs for a tangy, savory flavor.

Must-Try!

Peixada Maranhense

A hearty fish stew made with local fish, cassava, peppers, and garlic; often served with rice.

Carne de sol com macaxeira

Salt-cured beef paired with cassava; a common regional pairing that highlights traditional preservation and starch-based sides.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mercado Municipal de Peri-Mirim

A local market offering fresh fish, produce, cassava, and ready-to-eat snacks, ideal for tasting everyday Maranhão flavors.

Riverfront snack stalls

Casual vendors along the river offering fried plantains, tapioca, and grilled seafood—great for a quick, flavorful bite.

Climate Guide

Weather

The area experiences a hot tropical climate with high humidity year-round. Temperatures typically range from warm to hot, with a marked rainy season (roughly January–May) and a drier, sunnier period (June–September). Humidity and mosquitoes are common, so bring insect repellent and breathable clothing. Casual, light wardrobes are suitable most of the year.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

Greet with a polite 'Olá' or 'Bom dia'; a handshake is common, and eye contact is valued.

Respect in public spaces

Dress modestly when visiting churches or religious sites; use polite language and wait your turn in queues.

Conversation

Small talk about family, local work, and regional dishes is welcome; avoid controversial topics in first meetings.

Tipping and generosity

Tipping is appreciated but not expected in all places; small acts of gratitude, like compliments to hosts, are valued.

Safety Guide

Safety

Practice standard travel safety: safeguard valuables, especially in crowded markets; avoid isolated areas after dark; use reputable transportation and stay aware of weather-related hazards such as flooding during the rainy season. Mosquito protection is important to reduce dengue and other mosquito-borne illnesses. Keep a basic first-aid kit and any personal medications you might need.

Tipping in Peri-Mirim

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

In Brazil, tipping is customary but not obligatory. A 5–10% tip at restaurants is common if service isn’t included; small inns and guides may appreciate small gratuities for good service.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted in markets and small eateries; many places in larger towns accept credit/debit cards, but carry some cash for remote areas and street vendors.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Rainy season (roughly January–May)

Expect frequent heavy showers and high humidity; trails can be muddy. Pack a lightweight rain jacket, quick-dry clothing, and sandals or waterproof shoes.

Dry season (roughly June–September)

Warm and sunny with less rainfall; great for outdoor activities but stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun with sunscreen and a hat.

Shoulder season (October–December)

Mixed rain and sun with increasingly comfortable temperatures; fewer crowds and pleasant conditions for exploring both urban and natural sites.

Nightlife Guide

Peri-Mirim at Night

In Peri-Mirim, nightlife tends to be intimate and community-focused. Local bars and cafes host live music sessions featuring MPB, forró, and sertanejo; weekend gatherings near the river or town square provide a relaxed, social atmosphere rather than big-club scenes.

Hiking in Peri-Mirim

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Chapada das Mesas trails

Dramatic canyons, waterfalls, and forested areas in Maranhão’s Chapada das Mesas region; longer drives but rewarding for rugged hiking and nature photography.

Riverside and forest trails near Peri-Mirim

Local, shorter trails along riverbanks and nearby woodlands suitable for day hikes with scenic views and birdwatching.

Airports

How to reach Peri-Mirim by plane.

São Luís – Marechal Cunha Machado International Airport (SLZ)

Regional and international gateway to Maranhão; connections to major Brazilian cities and some international flights. Accessed by road from Peri-Mirim; plan for travel time and local transport upon arrival.

Imperatriz Airport (IMP)

Domestic airport serving the Imperatriz region; convenient for quick access to western Maranhão and nearby towns. Often used for regional connections and charters.

Getting Around

Walkability

Peri-Mirim is walkable within the town center, with most amenities reachable on foot. For rural outskirts or river excursions, short drives or motos-taxis are common. Roads can be uneven outside the core area, so plan for flexible transportation.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Rural families

Predominantly agrarian communities making up the core of Peri-Mirim’s population, with a mix of Afro-Brazilian and mixed-heritage residents.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Futebol (Soccer)

The most popular sport in the region; informal matches and local teams are common in town and surrounding communities.

Capoeira

Traditional Brazilian martial-art dance form practiced in community spaces and cultural centers.

Transportation

Traffic

Roads within the town are generally serviceable, with more limited public transportation in rural areas. Private cars and motorcycle taxis are common for longer trips; travel times can be longer during the rainy season due to slick roads. When possible, arrange transfers with reputable drivers or accommodations.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Peri-Mirim.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Vegetarian options are available with beans, rice, farofa, plantains, and salads. Request egg or dairy if needed, and ask for vegetable stews or cassava-based dishes as a hearty alternative.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

There are basic health clinics in Peri-Mirim; for more advanced care, patients typically travel to Imperatriz or São Luís. Bring any essential medications and health insurance information, and confirm hospital capabilities before seeking specialized treatment.

Discover Brazil

Read more in our Brazil 2025 Travel Guide.

Brazil Travel Guide